MOVIE REVIEW: THE LOVEBIRDS

On the brink of breaking up, a couple gets unintentionally embroiled in a bizarre murder mystery. As they get closer to clearing their names and solving the case, they need to figure out how they, and their relationship, can survive the night.

Director: Michael Showalter

Cast: Issa Rae, Kumail Nanjiani, Paul Sparks, Anna Camp, Kyle Bornheimer

Release Date: May 22, 2020

Action, Comedy, Crime

Rated R for sexual content, language throughout and some violence

Runtime: 1 h 26 min

Review:

The Lovebirds doesn’t offer anything new or groundbreaking, if you’ve seen comedy capers like Game Night or Date Night then you’ll know what to expect.  Michael Showalter seems to know that the plot isn’t the strength of this film so he lets his stars carry it from start to finish.  It’s a great decision since Issa Rae and Kumail Nanjiani work so well together on screen with their brand of comedy meshing perfectly.  Issa Rae finally has a big screen vehicle to show off her immense talent.  Those that have already seen her HBO show Insecure will be well versed in her excellent timing but those being exposed for the first time will find plenty to like about her.  Rae has an effortless screen presence and which is matched by Nanjiani.  Both drive the film brisk runtime, its plot is like a goof ball Eyes Wide Shut, as they move from one wacky set piece to another.  There aren’t many curve balls so it’s the definition of a light fun comedy which can be the best kind of escapism. 


B+

MOVIE REVIEW: PITCH PERFECT 3

After the highs of winning the world championships, the Bellas find themselves split apart and discovering there aren't job prospects for making music with your mouth. But when they get the chance to reunite for an overseas USO tour, this group of awesome nerds will come together to make some music, and some questionable decisions, one last time.

Director: Trish Sie 

Cast: Anna Kendrick, Anna Camp, Rebel Wilson, Brittany Snow, Hailee Steinfeld, Hana Mae Lee

Rated PG-13 for crude and sexual content, language and some action.

Genres: Comedy, Music

Runtime: 1h 33min

Review:

Pitch Perfect started off as a spunky girl power film that took people by surprise.  Sadly, by its third go around it’s lost a large chuck of its forward momentum simply because it’s not the type of story that really warranted 3 feature length films.  The cast remains the strongest component of the franchise and their chemistry is still just as strong as it was before.  Their interactions are the high points of the film even though the story feels hacked together.  The plot this go around seems to have two primary purposes, to get to the next song and dance routine and move along a paper thing story about the USO, DJ Khaled and Fat Amy’s father.  It’s weak and really feels more like an after thought.  It’s a shame because they probably could have gotten more run out of these characters if they’d put just a tad bit more effort.  Sadly, it’s more of a final victory lap before these characters are put to pasture for good. 

C+

MOVIE REVIEW: PITCH PERFECT

IN THEATERS

PITCH PERFECT




A feisty coed joins a collegiate a cappella group and upgrades their song selection for the 21st century during the run-up to a major competition in this melodic comedy from Tony-nominated Avenue Q director Jason Moore. Drifting past the various cliques after arriving at college, Beca (Anna Kendrick) pays more attention to the jams pumping in her headphones than the people she passes on her way to class. But all that changes the moment she stumbles into the one place where every misfit has a voice -- the campus a cappella group. Although the competition amongst the singers proves surprisingly fierce, there's just one aspect of the group Beca can't wrap her head around: All of the songs they perform are at least a decade old. Convinced that they can do better by adding some contemporary tunes into the mix, Beca whips up an exciting new set list that will set the group apart and leave their rivals in the dust. Brittany Snow, Anna Camp, and Rebel Wilson co-star. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi

Director: Jason Moore

Cast: Anna Kendrick, Skylar Astin, Brittany Snow, Anna Camp, Rebel Wilson.

Release Date: Sep 28, 2012

Rated PG-13 for sexual Material, Language and Drug References

Runtime: 1 hr. 52 min.

Genres: Comedy

Review:

It’d be easy to write off Pitch Perfect as a Glee inspired money grab. The truth is that it’s a fun almost tongue in cheek redux of Bring it On with singing instead of cheerleading. Director Jason Moore has a strong sense of what the film is. In doing so he never takes the proceedings very seriously, leaving everything as light and effervescent to make it as easily digestible and enjoyable. At its core the film maintains a steady flow and tenor, only rarely missing a few beats here and there. The script works in spite of tired tropes with some fun dialogue that moves the film through some of cheesier moments. Anna Kendrick, she of strong features, carries this film with lots of help from her strong supporting cast. Kendrick is strong and believable as the lead, even though the character is about as common as a cold, she even impresses with some nice vocals. Rebel Wilson though is scene stealer here, proving she’s got so much more in her talent tool box than just broad laughs. She’s got some strong singing chops and excellent comedic timing. Anna Camp and Brittany Snow fall into their mean girl roles quite well in supporting but important roles. Some fun bit players round out the cast. If the film suffers from a major flaw its it’s length. There’s really no reason for this film to be nearly 2 hours in length and there are plenty of scenes which could have been trimmed or cut all together to streamline the experience.

B-